Anil Kumar Rastogi Clarifies Missed Handshake with PM Modi at Padma Awards
Veteran actor and scientist Anil Kumar Rastogi addressed a viral video from the recent Padma Awards ceremony where he appeared to miss Prime Minister Narendra Modi's handshake while receiving his Padma Shri from President Droupadi Murmu. Rastogi clarified on social media that the oversight was unintentional due to his age and expressed respect for the Prime Minister. The incident sparked mixed reactions online, with some interpreting it as a snub, while others viewed it as a simple mistake.
First-hand measurement across 2 sources
We measured how 2 outlets covered this story. Coverage leans balanced overall (Left 10%, Centre 85%, Right 5%). Overall sentiment is positive (70/100). Lens Score 42/100 — moderate-to-low public interest.
Outlets analysed (first-hand measurement by TBN's Bias Engine):
- hindustantimes— balanced framing, positive sentiment
- freepressjournal— balanced framing, positive sentiment
AI Analysis
The articles present multiple perspectives, including social media reactions interpreting the handshake incident as a deliberate snub and Rastogi's own explanation attributing it to age-related oversight. The inclusion of a political figure's comment adds a critical viewpoint, while Rastogi's respectful statement towards the Prime Minister balances the narrative. Overall, the coverage reflects a mix of political and social perspectives without favoring any side.
The tone across the articles is generally neutral to mildly defensive, focusing on clarifying misunderstandings rather than escalating conflict. While some social media reactions are critical or mocking, the actor's response emphasizes respect and explanation, resulting in a balanced sentiment that acknowledges both controversy and resolution.